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LSG vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 7

Charbel Coorey
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LSG vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 7

LSG vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 7 | LSG vs CSK Dream11 Prediction Today | Lucknow Super Giants vs Chennai Super Kings Key Players | Brabourne Pitch Report

It’s the newbies vs the oldies. A battle of the Super Giants and the Super Kings. The narrative itself is super, and it has the makings for a super match where the new team in town will try to ruffle the feathers of a very successful, established franchise.

Lucknow Super Giants and Chennai Super Kings are both coming off first up losses. CSK have shown time and time their bounce-back ability, but how LSG bounce back will be interesting to see. KL Rahul’s team was in control for much of the chase against Gujarat a few nights ago, only for a Rahul Tewatia storm to catch a KL-led team off-guard once again.

Against CSK’s lineup of hitters that will now include Moeen Ali, Lucknow will have to find a way to keep them quiet. Otherwise, it can all get out of control at Brabourne as it did for Mumbai Indians on this ground over the weekend. However, there are positives to be had including the form of the middle order, as well as Krunal Pandya’s all-round effort.

The key here will be to have a good start with the bat after both teams were blown away in the powerplay first up. This has the makings for a cracking clash, with high importance on playing from in front early.

Possible Playing 11

It is unclear whether Andrew Tye is available after quarantine. If he is, he could come in for Mohsin Khan as a death bowling option.

Lucknow Super Giants: 1. KL Rahul (c), 2. Quinton de Kock (wk), 3. Evin Lewis, 4. Manish Pandey, 5. Deepak Hooda, 6. Ayush Badoni, 7. Krunal Pandya, 8. Andrew Tye/Mohsin Khan, 9. Dushmantha Chameera, 10. Ravi Bishnoi, 11. Avesh Khan

In a boost for CSK, Moeen Ali is available. He should replace Mitchell Santner.

Chennai Super Kings: 1. Ruturaj Gaikwad, 2. Devon Conway, 3. Robin Uthappa, 4. Moeen Ali, 5. Ambati Rayudu, 6. Ravindra Jadeja (c), 7. MS Dhoni (wk), 8. Shivam Dube, 9. Dwayne Bravo, 10. Adam Milne, 11. Tushar Deshpande

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Lucknow Super Giants:

  • KL Rahul has never scored two ducks in a row in the IPL. Also, he has a terrific record against CSK, with 395 runs in 10 innings at an average of 43.89 and strike rate of 141.58, which includes an incredible 42-ball 98* last season.
  • KL Rahul averages 64 (due to not outs) and strikes at 130 in the powerplay in the IPL. If he bats deep, watch out, as he strikes at 156 between overs 12-16 and 185 in the death overs.
  • Quinton de Kock averages 24.91 in 12 matches vs CSK with one 50+ score. LSG will be hoping their big gun can improve on that record today.
  • Manish Pandey will be key for LSG. He too doesn’t have the best of records vs CSK (avg. 21.50 in 18 innings), but he can deliver especially if he comes in during the powerplay where he strikes at 133 in the IPL.
  • Deepak Hooda made an excellent start to his IPL 2022 campaign against Gujarat. His 41-ball 55 rescued LSG from a very difficult position, as did the impressive Ayush Badoni’s 41-ball 54.
  • Krunal Pandya also had a good match against Gujarat (21* and 1/17). He takes a wicket every 21 deliveries on average against CSK.
  • Avesh Khan took the second-most wickets in IPL 2021 (24). He took 2/23 against CSK in India last season, along with 1/35 and 1/47 in the UAE. He averages 12 runs per wicket and concedes 9.1 runs per over at the death in the IPL, and LSG would take those numbers today.

Chennai Super Kings:

  • A slow start to a tournament or series is common for Ruturaj Gaikwad. It often takes him a couple of matches at least to find his groove. He is capable of going well today as he is the reigning Orange Cap holder (635 runs in IPL 2021).
  • Moeen Ali is back. He was key to CSK’s run to the title last season, where he struck 357 runs at a strike rate of 137.30, along with six wickets at an economy rate of just 6.35. Expect him to bowl a few overs against a Lucknow team that has a number of left-handers.
  • Ravindra Jadeja has been one of the best finishers over the past two seasons, so it’s important CSK give him a platform to work off. The CSK captain struck smashed 459 runs at an average of 57.38 and strike rate of 157.73 across IPL 2020 and 2021.
  • Jadeja will also be key with the ball. He could look to use himself against Manish Pandey, whom he has dismissed twice in 46 deliveries in the IPL for just 41 runs.
  • MS Dhoni wound back the clock with a sparkling 38-ball 50* in the IPL 2022 opener against KKR. Can he finish well here once again?
  • Dwayne Bravo was CSK’s second-highest wicket-taker last season with 14 in 11 matches at an economy rate of 7.81. He enjoyed a great start to IPL 2022, with 3/20 against KKR.
  • Jadeja could look to use Bravo in the powerplay. He has a great record against Quinton de Kock in T20s, dismissing him four times for 55 runs in 46 deliveries. However, KL Rahul has a fine record vs Bravo in the IPL, with 48 runs off 34 balls without dismissal.

Other Stats and Facts

  • LSG could look to use Krunal Pandya against Ambati Rayudu. The spinner has dismissed Rayudu twice in 28 deliveries in the IPL, conceding just 25 runs in the process.
  • Krunal also has a decent record vs Robin Uthappa in the IPL: 27 deliveries, 30 runs, one dismissal.
  • Evin Lewis has a strike rate of 150 between overs 7-11 and 168 between overs 12-16 in the IPL.
  • Moeen Ali has a strike rate of 195 in the death overs in the IPL.
  • Devon Conway averages 44.96 in all T20s when batting first (2,058 runs) and 41.46 batting second (1,700 runs).
  • Ravi Bishnoi has taken just one wicket in three matches vs CSK so far (avg. 72).

Brabourne Stadium Mumbai Pitch Report and Weather

This will be the first night game at Brabourne this season. If the track is anything like the belter we saw in the Mumbai-Delhi match on Sunday, then we could be in for a high-scoring match here.

However, teams getting blown away in the powerplay is a common theme so far in this IPL. Given it is a night game, the ball could swing around early, which puts onus on the top order to get through the first few overs.

Another clear and warm night is forecast.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article as well as your own instincts to create your teams.

Option 1:

LSG vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 7 | LSG vs CSK Dream11 Prediction Today | Lucknow Super Giants vs Chennai Super Kings Key Players | Brabourne Pitch Report
LSK vs CSK Dream11 Prediction: IPL 2022 Match 7

Option 2:

LSG vs CSK Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 7 | LSG vs CSK Dream11 Prediction Today | Lucknow Super Giants vs Chennai Super Kings Key Players | Brabourne Pitch Report
LSK vs CSK Dream11 Prediction: IPL 2022 Match 7

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: KL Rahul, Quinton de Kock
  • Batsmen: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Deepak Hooda
  • All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Moeen Ali
  • Bowlers: Dwayne Bravo, Dushmantha Chameera

Match Prediction

Chasing teams have won five out of six night games so far in IPL 2022. Getting through the powerplay in a good position will be key especially when batting first. CSK have more depth to their side, and look good for a win.

Over 50,000 people attend Shane Warne Memorial at MCG

Charbel Coorey
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0
Over 50,000 people attend Shane Warne Memorial at MCG

Cricket News: Over 50,000 people attend Shane Warne Memorial at MCG | Legendary Shane Warne remembered in Memorial at MCG

A crowd of over 50,000 people attended the Shane Warne Memorial at the MCG to honour one of cricket’s greatest ever. A-List celebrities, current and past cricketers, and friends paid tribute, with the most touching words coming from his kids Summer, Jackson and Brooke before they unveiled the stand named in his honour.

26 days have passed since Warne’s shock passing while on holiday in Thailand. Such was his incredible impact as a cricketer, father and friend that the memorial could have lasted a week. He goes beyond his remarkable 708 wickets, with his cricketing knowledge, loyalty and friendship a common theme among the many people who spoke of him both at the memorial and since his passing.

Former cricketers, including Allan Border, Brian Lara and Sachin Tendulkar, pay tribute to Warne

A panel consisting of Allan Border, Mark Taylor, Merv Hughes, Nasser Hussain and Brian Lara each spoke of what Warne meant to them, sharing a special story in celebration of his life. Each were also asked to describe Warne in a word, and all members of the panel gave a memorable response.

  • Allan Border: “Genius”
  • Mark Taylor: “Genuine”
  • Merv Hughes: “Dead-set bogan”
  • Nasser Hussain: “Entertainer”
  • Brian Lara: “King”

Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar, who engaged in many memorable battles with Warne, sent in a video message speaking of Warne’s legacy.

“When someone batted well he was the first one to walk up to you and congratulate. That is how our friendship and respect for each other was. Warnie, my friend, I will miss you. I will miss you big time. You will continue to live in my heart. May your soul rest in peace,“ said Tendulkar.

Over 50,000 people attend Shane Warne Memorial at MCG: Sachin Tendulkar.

Celebrities including Chris Martin, Elton John and Kylie Minogue pay tribute

It was well documented just how many people Warne knew, and their tributes highlight the impression he left on them all. Coldplay’s Chris Martin performed a piano piece via video called ‘Eulogy’, dedicated to Warne. He then performed Coldplay’s classic hit “Yellow” on an acoustic guitar.

Elton John sung “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” from the United States after his words of tribute to his friend, and called the memorial a celebration of Warne’s life.

Australian actor Hugh Jackman said via video, “Man, he sucked the marrow out of life. He was a great teammate. He loved the game of cricket. He loved his friends and family. He loved life. There was no-one like you, Warnie and never will be again. We will miss you.”

Singers Kyle and Dannii Minogue, Robbie Williams, golfer Greg Norman and surfer Kelly Slater also paid tribute. Ed Sheeran recently said Warne was an incredible human to him. Quite the impact.

Cricket News: Over 50,000 people attend Shane Warne Memorial at MCG | Legendary Shane Warne remembered in Memorial at MCG
Over 50,000 people attend Shane Warne Memorial at MCG: Kylie Minogue, Elton John and Hugh Jackman

Warne’s charity work remembered

Shane Warne did plenty outside of cricket, assisting those in need with a focus on giving back. He assisted with the rebuild efforts in Sri Lanka after the 2004 Tsunami caused widespread devastation. The Shane Warne Foundation handed out $4 million to sick, disabled and disadvantaged children, including Will Murray, victim of a spinal cord injury.

“It made a huge difference and still does. I wish I could tell him again how much it meant to me,” Will said.

Father Keith and children Summer, Jackson and Brooke deliver emotional tributes

“Friday March 4, 2022, darkest day in our family’s life,” said Keith.

“Your mother and I can’t imagine a life without you. You have been taken too soon and our hearts are broken. Thank you for all you did for us. And for being such a loving and caring son. Rest in peace, mate. Love you.”

“I would do anything just to have one more you have your cuddles and to hear your voice tell me how proud of me you were and how much you loved me,” said Summer.

Jackson spoke afterwards, with a notable quote, “You were the best Dad anyone could have asked for and you were my best friend. Time with you went way too fast. It feels just like yesterday that we were looking at each others cards playing poker, eating pizza while watching the Saints.”

Brooke then said, “But what makes me the saddest is, I will never get to wrap my arms around you and give you the biggest hug and rest my chin on your chest. Dad was our shining star in life and now he’s shining down on all of us. We will do you so proud, Dad.”

Cricket News: Over 50,000 people attend Shane Warne Memorial at MCG | Legendary Shane Warne remembered in Memorial at MCG
Warne’s children Summer, Jackson and Brooke unveil the Shane Warne stand.

It was a special night to remember a special player. Vale, Warnie.

RCB vs KKR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 6

Charbel Coorey
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0
RCB vs KKR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 6

RCB vs KKR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 6 | BLR vs KOL Dream11 Prediction Today | Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders Key Players | DY Patil Pitch Report

There are a few interesting backstories that make this game one to look forward to. Not only do Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kolkata Knight Riders have high aspirations for the respective IPL 2022 campaigns, but the two Kiwi coaches – Mike Hesson and Brendon McCullum – will be aiming to get one over the other. Also, Dinesh Karthik, who was playing an IPL Final for KKR just six months back, will now be leading the RCB team meetings on how to get the better of Kolkata’s key players.

This is an important game for RCB. It is by no means panic stations yet, but losing a match after scoring 200 is a situation you want to bounce back from. Faf du Plessis was outstanding with the bat in his RCB debut against Punjab Kings on Sunday, but his role as captain will come under the microscope as the bowlers will be after an improved showing.

Bowling was no such issue for KKR as Umesh Yadav led them to an excellent win over CSK on Saturday. One of the IPL’s great powerplay bowlers, Umesh put on a show in this stage once again, setting a bit of a trend in this tournament of bowling teams making inroads in the first six overs. If KKR can make inroads into RCB’s top order, it will ask serious questions of their middle order which does look a bit thin compared to other teams in the tournament.

Possible Playing 11

Royal Challengers Bangalore: 1. Faf du Plessis (c), 2. Anuj Rawat, 3. Virat Kohli, 4. Dinesh Karthik (wk), 5. Sherfane Rutherford, 6. Shahbaz Ahmed, 7. Wanindu Hasaranga, 8. Harshal Patel, 9. David Willey, 10. Mohammed Siraj, 11. Sidharth Kaul

Kolkata Knight Riders: 1. Venkatesh Iyer, 2. Ajinkya Rahane, 3. Shreyas Iyer (c), 4. Nitish Rana, 5. Sam Billings/Mohammad Nabi, 6. Sheldon Jackson (wk), 7. Andre Russell, 8. Sunil Narine, 9. Umesh Yadav, 10. Shivam Mavi, 11. Varun Chakravarthy

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Royal Challengers Bangalore:

  • Faf du Plessis started IPL 2022 with a bang. After a slow start vs Punjab, Faf showed his ability to switch gears to finish with a 53-ball 88. The RCB captain has a great past record against KKR, with 427 runs in 13 innings at an average of 42.70 and strike rate of 131.79, including a magnificent 86 off 59 balls in the IPL 2021 Final.
  • Virat Kohli has the most runs in RCB-KKR matches (774) at an average of 35.18 and strike rate of 128.15. In an encouraging sign, Kohli struck at 142 against spin against Punjab compared to his low strike rate last season. How he fares against Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy will be interesting to see.
  • As mentioned, Dinesh Karthik will provide some key intel to RCB about the KKR team. The keeper-batsman was superb as a finisher last game, striking a 14-ball 32*. In the IPL, he strikes at 184 in the death overs.
  • KKR struck just three boundaries against eight overs of spin against CSK. So, Wanindu Hasaranga will have a key role to play in limiting KKR’s run-scoring and also taking wickets.
  • Can Mohammed Siraj bounce back after a tough match against PBKS? The seamer has taken eight wickets in as many matches vs KKR at an average of 24.25 and economy rate of 7.37. RCB could utilise him in the powerplay (econ. 6.8) and death overs (econ. 8.9) specifically, especially given Siraj concedes 10.1 per over between overs 12-16 in the IPL.
  • A lot is expected of Harshal Patel, the top wicket-taker from IPL 2021 (32). He took 2/17, 0/13 and 2/19 against KKR last season.

Kolkata Knight Riders:

  • Sunil Narine has terrific all-round stats against RCB. He has taken 20 scalps in 15 matches against them at an average/economy rate of 19.60/6.53, along with 220 runs at an average/strike rate of 31.43 and 196.43.
  • Narine took 4/21 and struck 26 off 15 balls in an incredible all-round performance vs RCB in last season’s Eliminator.
  • Venkatesh Iyer struck 41* (27) and 26 (30) against RCB last season. Harshal Patel dismissed him in the Eliminator, and their battle could be one to watch once again.
  • Shreyas Iyer is in terrific form. He smashed three half-centuries in a row in the T20Is vs Sri Lanka last month, and started IPL 2022 in strong fashion both as a captain and batsman (20* vs CSK).
  • Shreyas has struck 291 runs in 11 matches vs RCB at an average of 26.45 and strike rate of 118.49. Can he build on those numbers here?
  • Andre Russell is always one to watch against RCB. The all-rounder has smashed 339 runs in 11 matches against them at an average of 48.43 and unbelievable strike rate of 215.92. He has also taken 10 wickets.
  • Umesh Yadav against RCB’s top order in the powerplay could go a long way to deciding the match. Umesh was superb against CSK (2/20), and he loves bowling in the powerplay in the IPL. In fact, he has the best strike rate (17.60) and second-best average (21.90) among bowlers who have delivered a minimum of 40 powerplay overs since IPL 2018.
  • Varun Chakravarthy has taken five wickets in as many games vs RCB at an economy rate of just 6.25. This includes 3/13 in the second leg of IPL 2021.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 30, KKR 17, RCB 13.
  • KKR should look to use Sunil Narine early to du Plessis. The West Indian has a great record against the RCB captain in T20s. He has conceded just 45 runs in 63 deliveries, with two dismissals.
  • Umesh Yadav has bowled 14 deliveries to Faf du Plessis in the IPL. He has dismissed him once and conceded just 11.
  • Sunil Narine vs Virat Kohli in all T20s: 137 deliveries bowled, 136 runs, three dismissals.
  • Nitish Rana for KKR vs RCB: 8 inns, 221 runs, avg. 35.83, SR 142.58.
  • Andre Russell has a batting strike rate of 176 in IPL matches in India. Also, RCB should look to go short to him as he has scored an unbelievable 139 off 43 against full deliveries (vs pace) in the IPL.
  • Ajinkya Rahane vs RCB: 21 innings, 639 runs, avg. 37.59, SR 129.35.

Dr DY Patil Sports Academy Mumbai Pitch Report and Weather

RCB smashed 205 on this ground vs Punjab on Sunday, but that wasn’t a winning total on a magnificent batting pitch. Expect another excellent batting surface today, with the captain very likely to choose to chase with some possible dew around.

Another clear and warm evening is forecast in Mumbai.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article as well as your own instincts to create your teams.

Option 1:

RCB vs KKR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 6 | BLR vs KOL Dream11 Prediction Today | Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders Key Players | DY Patil Pitch Report
RCB vs KKR Dream11 Prediction: IPL 2022 Match 6

Option 2:

RCB vs KKR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 6 | BLR vs KOL Dream11 Prediction Today | Royal Challengers Bangalore vs Kolkata Knight Riders Key Players | DY Patil Pitch Report
RCB vs KKR Dream11 Prediction: IPL 2022 Match 6

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Dinesh Karthik
  • Batsmen: Faf du Plessis, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer
  • All-rounders: Andre Russell, Sunil Narine
  • Bowlers: Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj

Match Prediction

Rajasthan Royals broke the trend of chasing teams winning in IPL 2022. Here, the chasing team will have an edge on such a ground, so a score 180+ batting first will be key. RCB, with plenty to prove, will be motivated to put on a good show.

PAK vs AUS 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
PAK vs AUS 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report

PAK vs AUS 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report | PAK vs AUS 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Today | Pakistan vs Australia 1st ODI Key Players | Lahore Pitch Report

Soon after an energy-sapping, emotionally-charged Test series that saw Australia prevail 1-0 in the final session, attention turns to the ODI Super League where both Pakistan and Australia will play their first ODI in quite some time.

To make matters all the more challenging for Australia, they will be without a number of their first-team regulars due to a variety of reasons. However, it is an opportunity for others to step up and make a mark, especially given an ODI World Cup is a little over a year away. They currently sit sixth in the ODI Super League table, only because they have played such limited ODI cricket since the start of the pandemic. They have beaten England, India and West Indies in this period, and will be looking to add Pakistan to the list.

For Babar Azam’s team, this will be their first ODI since July last year where they were beaten 3-0 by a new-look England team. They are certainly favourites on paper given the experience Australia is missing, so it is important for the home side to start well and improve the mood after a Test series defeat at home last week.

Possible Playing 11

Shadab Khan could be out of the first two ODIs due to the groin injury he picked up in the PSL. Also, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Imad Wasim are not in the Pakistan ODI squad.

Pakistan: 1. Imam-ul-Haq, 2. Fakhar Zaman, 3. Babar Azam (c), 4. Abdullah Shafique, 5. Mohammad Rizwan (wk), 6. Mohammad Haris, 7. Faheem Ashraf, 8. Asif Afridi, 9. Hasan Ali, 10. Shaheen Shah Afridi, 11. Haris Rauf

For Australia, a number of frontline players, including David Warner and Pat Cummins, are rested. Steve Smith is out of the series due to his troublesome elbow, while Mitch Marsh is out of the first ODI at least due to a hip injury. Josh Inglis and Ashton Agar are not up for selection after testing positive for COVID-19.

Australia could look to play a second spinner in the form of Mitch Swepson with Stoinis and Green available. Also, it remains to be seen if Australia open with Travis Head or Ben McDermott.

Australia: 1. Aaron Finch (c), 2. Ben McDermott, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Travis Head, 5. Marcus Stoinis, 6. Cameron Green, 7. Alex Carey (wk), 8. Sean Abbott/Mitch Swepson, 9. Jason Behrendorff, 10. Adam Zampa, 11. Nathan Ellis

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Pakistan:

  • Babar Azam was outstanding in the Tests, and he returns to arguably his favourite format where he averages 56.92 in 83 ODIs. The skipper averages 52 in six ODIs vs Australia (312 runs), with a half-century and century to his name.
  • Fakhar Zaman was outstanding in the recent PSL. The left-hander struck 588 runs (the most of any player) at an average of 45.23 and strike rate of 152.72.
  • Mohammad Rizwan is without a doubt one of Pakistan’s best white-ball players currently. He too was excellent in the recent PSL, with 546 runs at an average of 68.45 and strike rate of 126.68. He will be key in the middle order here.
  • Shaheen Shah Afridi recently led Lahore to their first PSL Title on this ground. He has played just the one ODI against Australia so far (2/70 in the 2019 World Cup), but his ability to swing the ball early could cause issues for Australia, particularly Aaron Finch. Remember the 2021 T20 World Cup Semi Final?
  • Hasan Ali much prefers bowling first in ODIs. In games where Pakistan have bowled first, Ali has taken 64 wickets in 28 ODIs at an average of 22.95. When bowling second, the average balloons up to 45.64 (25 wickets in 27 ODI innings).

Australia:

  • It’s a big series for the under pressure Aaron Finch. The skipper needs to lead the way with the bat in an inexperienced Aussie side. He had a magnificent series against Pakistan in the UAE in 2019 (5 inns, 451 runs, avg. 112.75) and averages 63 in 10 ODIs overall against Pakistan.
  • Travis Head has a century and half-century to his name in five ODIs against Pakistan (total of 270 runs, avg. 67.50). Also, Australia could look to play him as opener given his past success in the role. He has scored 493 runs in 12 innings at an average of 41.08 with five 50+ scores.
  • Marnus Labuschagne has made a strong impression in his ODI career so far, with 473 runs in 13 matches at an average of 39.41 and strike rate of 91.43. This includes a century and three half-centuries.
  • Also, Aaron Finch has hinted that Labuschagne could be used as an all-rounder. So, we could expect to see some overs out of Marnus.
  • Adam Zampa will be key for Australia, especially when it comes to taking wickets in the middle overs. He is three wickets away from 100 in ODIs, with this set to be his 65th match. He has taken 11 wickets in seven ODIs against Pakistan (avg. 34).
  • Jason Behrendorff will be key upfront with his ability to swing the ball. Australia will need early wickets, and Behrendorff could be the player to deliver.

Stats and Facts

  • The last time these two teams met in a bilateral ODI series was in 2019 in the UAE. Australia won 5-0.
  • Australia sit seventh and Pakistan tenth in the ODI Super League table. Both teams have played nine matches so far.
  • This will be the first ODI at Lahore since Zimbabwe’s momentous visit in 2015 that broke a six-year hiatus of international cricket in Pakistan. The last ODI before that was in 2009.

Gaddafi Stadium Lahore Pitch Report and Weather

Expect a dry but good batting surface on a ground which typically favours the batsmen. The pitches were excellent for batting in the PSL, and then again in the recent Test match. There could be dew in the evening, so chasing could be the way to go even though it is a very hot day in Lahore (37 degrees).

Dream11 Prediction

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article as well as your own instincts to create your teams.

Option 1:

PAK vs AUS 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

PAK vs AUS 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report | PAK vs AUS 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction Today | Pakistan vs Australia 1st ODI Key Players | Lahore Pitch Report
PAK vs AUS 1st ODI Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Mohammad Rizwan
  • Batsmen: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Marnus Labuschagne
  • All-rounders: Ashton Agar
  • Bowlers: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Adam Zampa

Match Prediction

Pakistan should win given the gulf in experience between the teams.

SRH vs RR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 5

Charbel Coorey
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0
SRH vs RR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 5

SRH vs RR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 5 | SRH vs RR Dream11 Prediction Today | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals Key Players | Pune Pitch Report

Two teams with plenty to prove will kickstart their respective campaigns with a clash that can set the tone for their season. Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals disappointed in IPL 2021, with both missing out on the playoffs.

Sunrisers were comfortably the most disappointing, finishing bottom of the table in a wretched season where they hit the self-destruct button. David Warner and Rashid Khan, two of the franchise’s greatest ever players, are no longer around, which provides the opportunity for others to make their mark. Those others include Nicholas Pooran, who is yet to find consistency in the IPL, as well as Aiden Markram, Abdul Samad and Umran Malik who all have the game to lead SRH to wins this season.

And they will have a good test right away. Rajasthan Royals had a strong auction, where they put together an experienced bowling attack to complement an exciting batting lineup. R Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal could be the best spin partnership in the league, while Trent Boult and Prasidh Krishna, who had a wonderful ODI series vs West Indies last month, is an exciting pace partnership.

However, how well the Royals can bury the demons of recent years will be key. They have always been thereabouts when it comes to playoffs qualification, but they have not been able to raise their game that extra level to properly challenge for their first title since 2008. With a long batting lineup and experienced attack, here is their chance to make a mark.

Possible Playing 11

Kane Williamson will lead a new-look Hyderabad team that will likely have the inconsistent-but-talented Nicholas Pooran and Aiden Markram in the middle order.

Sunrisers Hyderabad: 1. Rahul Tripathi, 2. Abhishek Sharma, 3. Kane Williamson (c), 4. Nicholas Pooran (wk), 5. Aiden Markram, 6. Abdul Samad, 7. Washington Sundar, 8. Marco Jansen/Romario Shepherd, 9. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 10. T Natarajan, 11. Umran Malik

In a pre-match media conference, Royals captain Sanju Samson confirmed that Riyan Parag will bat in the middle order and will likely face a maximum of 10-20 deliveries. Details here.

It remains to be seen whether Yashasvi Jaiswal or Devdutt Padikkal opens with Jos Buttler. Also, there is an all-rounder spot up for grabs, with Jimmy Neesham or Nathan Coulter-Nile to make the XI.

Rajasthan Royals: 1. Yashasvi Jaiswal, 2. Jos Buttler, 3. Devdutt Padikkal, 4. Sanju Samson (c & wk), 5. Shimron Hetmyer, 6. Riyan Parag, 7. James Neesham/Nathan Coulter-Nile, 8. R Ashwin, 9. Yuzvendra Chahal, 10. Trent Boult, 11. Prasidh Krishna

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Sunrisers Hyderabad:

  • Kane Williamson will be key for Hyderabad. The skipper has a solid record against RR, with 219 runs in seven innings at an average of 54.75 and strike rate of 124.43.
  • However, this is a new-look Royals attack, so the battles will be interesting. Williamson has scored 65 runs in 49 balls against Ashwin in T20s without being dismissed. He has scored 22 runs off 14 balls against Boult in the IPL for one dismissal. The figure against Chahal is 54 runs in 54 deliveries for one dismissal.
  • Rahul Tripathi produced some gems in IPL 2021, scoring a total of 397 runs at a strike rate above 140. His battle with Trent Boult will be key, as the Kiwi quick has conceded just 14 runs off 15 deliveries to Tripathi with one dismissal.
  • It is a big tournament for Nicholas Pooran. The West Indian was purchased for over 10 crores, and now needs to repay the faith after a poor 2021 campaign. He was superb against India in the T20Is last month, making scores of 61, 62 and 61.
  • Washington Sundar could be an important asset for SRH in the powerplay. The Royals have three left-handers in their top six. Interestingly, Sundar averages 22 per wicket when he bowls under 90km/h (econ. 8.08) compared to 33 when he bowls 90 or above (econ. 6.75).
  • Bhuvneshwar Kumar has taken 10 wickets in nine matches vs Royals at an average of 27.60 and economy rate of 7.77. Kumar has never dismissed Jos Buttler in the IPL (29 balls, 35 runs), but has taken his wicket three times in 29 deliveries in T20 Internationals (28 balls).

Rajasthan Royals:

  • Skipper Sanju Samson has the most runs in RR-SRH matches. He has struck 512 runs in 14 matches at an excellent average of 42.67 and strike rate of 130.28. Also, Samson has scored a century on this ground; 102 off 63 balls vs Rising Pune Supergiant in 2017.
  • Jos Buttler has struck 120 runs in four matches on this ground at an average of 60.00 and strike rate of 162.16. The Englishman has a century against SRH (124), but just 46 runs in his remaining five innings against them. Can he produce a big knock here?
  • Buttler has excellent numbers at all stages of an innings in the IPL. He strikes at 135 in the powerplay (avg. 40), 138 in overs 7-11 (avg. 46), 153 in overs 12-16 (avg. 31) and 213 at the death (avg. 44).
  • Yashasvi Jaiswal struck at 148.21 in his first full IPL season last year. He strikes at 151 between overs 7-11, so it will be interesting to see where the Royals bat him. He made scores of 36 and 13 vs SRH last year at a strike rate of 133.33.
  • Shimron Hetmyer is an excellent spin-hitter. He strikes at 144 against spin bowled faster than 90km/h in the IPL. Also, he is coming off a superb IPL 2021 campaign, where he struck 242 runs at an average of 34.57 and strike rate of 168.05.
  • Yuzvendra Chahal has a solid record against SRH. The leg-spinner has taken 17 wickets in 16 matches against them at an average of 27.18 and strike rate of 21.59. He will be key in the middle overs, where he averages around 20 in the IPL and concedes less than eight per over.
  • Can Trent Boult make an immediate impact, especially at the death? He has taken nine wickets in eight matches against SRH at an average of 28.78 and economy rate of 8.49.
  • Prasidh Krishna’s excellent ODI series vs West Indies (2/29, 4/12, 3/27) reminded everyone of his potential. He followed this up with 15 wickets in two First Class matches a month ago. But, whether he can improve his poor IPL numbers remains to be seen. His best period is overs 12-16, where he averages 16.3 and concedes 8.5 per over.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 15, SRH 8, RR 7.
  • Kane Williamson’s strike rate in the powerplay in the IPL is just 99. It is only slightly better (101) between overs 7-11. However, it jumps up to 154 in overs 12-16 and 175 at the death. So, the Royals need his wicket as early as possible.
  • Rahul Tripathi vs Prasidh Krishna in the IPL: 8 deliveries, 21 runs, 0 dismissals.
  • Abhishek Sharma struck at 176.92 in his two innings as an IPL opener last season (46 runs).
  • Devdutt Padikkal averages just 14 and strikes at 104 against high pace. His battle vs Umran Malik will be one to watch. Conversely, he averages 83 and strikes at 136 against left-arm spin, so expect Abhishek Sharma to be held back if Padikkal is at the crease.
  • The absence of a legspin option could hurt SRH against Buttler. The Englishman averages 36 vs medium pace (SR 145), 51 vs high pace (SR 150), 54 vs left-arm spin (SR 133) and 54 vs off-spin (SR 140).
  • Trent Boult has taken the most powerplay wickets in the IPL since the start of 2020 (21). R Ashwin has taken the most wickets in the powerplay among spinners in the same period (8).

Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium Pune Pitch Report and Weather

The last IPL matches on this ground were played in 2018 as CSK played home matches in Pune. The average first innings score then was 173.83, with the chasing team winning four of the six matches in that tournament.

Expect another good batting track here, as has been the case in the tournament so far. However, the new ball bowlers have had success so far, and that is a possibility here on a fresh pitch.

Expect the captain who wins the toss to choose to chase on a very hot, clear evening. Temperatures will be around 40 degrees in Pune during the day.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article as well as your own instincts to create your teams.

Option 1:

SRH vs RR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 5 | SRH vs RR Dream11 Prediction Today | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals Key Players | Pune Pitch Report
SRH vs RR Dream11 Prediction: IPL 2022 Match 5

Option 2:

SRH vs RR Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 5 | SRH vs RR Dream11 Prediction Today | Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Rajasthan Royals Key Players | Pune Pitch Report
SRH vs RR Dream11 Prediction: IPL 2022 Match 5

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson, Nicholas Pooran
  • Batsmen: Kane Williamson
  • All-rounders: Abhishek Sharma, Washington Sundar
  • Bowlers: Trent Boult, Bhuvneshar Kumar

Match Prediction

Should be a cracking match. Rajasthan Royals have performed well in the opening match at times over the past few years, and they start as favourites here against an unpredictable SRH team. However, it could come down to chasing once again, so the team batting first will be aiming for 170+ at least.

IPL 2022 could be breakthrough year for Riyan Parag – Sanju Samson

Charbel Coorey
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IPL 2022 could be breakthrough year for Riyan Parag – Sanju Samson

Cricket News: IPL 2022 could be breakthrough year for Riyan Parag – Sanju Samson | Sanju Samson talks about Riyan Parag and Lasith Malinga

Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson is expecting big things from all-rounder Riyan Parag in IPL 2022. Speaking in a media conference on the Royals’ Facebook page ahead of their season opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Tuesday, Samson heaped praise on the youngster, who has impressed in the practice matches.

Answering a question from CricBlog about whether this could be Riyan Parag’s breakthrough year, Samson said, “Absolutely. I think he joined us at the age of 17 from that time I think myself and every person in the leadership group was really excited about the way he plays.”

I think naturally people are talking a lot about him because he has that potential; something big can happen in the coming future. It’s all about trusting him and knowing that he has the game within himself and letting him go out and play,“ Samson added.

Riyan Parag might be facing 10, 15, 20 balls maximum but can win matches for the Royals – Samson

Samson also spoke of Riyan Parag’s role, which could be quite similar to the type of knock Odean Smith played to get over the line against Royal Challengers Bangalore. The Royals captain sees Parag as someone who will come down the order and be tasked with playing those crucial knocks at the backend of the innings.

“I think he is someone who might come in the middle order for us. I think he is someone who might be facing 10 to 15 or maximum 20 balls so the opportunity of scoring big runs for him is very less,” Samson said.

The role which he has, those 20, 25, 30 runs are the matchwinning runs. So, the pressure is high on someone so young like him to accept that role happily to go out there and win matches for his team.”

“That itself shows his character, so I am very much excited for him this season.”

“Lasith Malinga makes bowling sound simple and easy” – Samson

Samson also spoke of the impact new bowling coach Lasith Malinga is having. Death bowling will be key to the Royals’ hopes of a first title since 2008, and Malinga’s clear messages help significantly.

“Whatever chats we have had in these meetings, he makes bowling sound so simple and so easy,” said the Royals’ captain. “That gives a lot of clarity to almost every bowler in the side.”

Samson then went on to explain just how simple the Sri Lankan legend keeps things.

“I heard something interesting from him; I had never heard this before. He said there is only two types of batsmen in the world; one is right-handed, one is left-handed. We just need to learn how to bowl to two batsmen.”

“He is making things a lot easier for me as a captain; understanding the bowlers, their mindset, their strengths and weaknesses.”

The Royals, who boast of a skilled bowling attack featuring the likes of Trent Boult, R Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal, will start their highly-anticipated IPL 2022 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 29.

You can watch Sanju Samson’s full media conference via Facebook here.

GT vs LSG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 4

Charbel Coorey
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GT vs LSG Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 4

GT vs LKN Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 4 | GT vs LSG Dream11 Prediction Today | Gujarat Titans vs Lucknow Super Giants Key Players | Wankhede Pitch Report

Here we go. It’s time for the two newest teams to grace the IPL, and the beauty of this contest is that we can have almost no idea how it will transpire.

Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans will be looking to write their own classic narratives in IPL 2022. Both sides have plenty to look forward to, with proven talent and experience on show. Lucknow’s opening pair of KL Rahul and Quinton de Kock is one to die for. The Lockie Ferguson-Rashid Khan-Mohammed Shami trio could prove wonders for Gujarat. And, the Pandya brothers will go head-to-head for the first time.

Those factors alone make for an eyecatching battle.

The key here is how quickly both sides can shake off the nerves and get into their stride. KL Rahul will be hoping for a new lease of life after a frustrating time as skipper of the Punjab Kings, while attention will be fixed on how Hardik Pandya leads Gujarat both with his all-round cricket and man management skills.

This should be fun.

Possible Playing 11

It remains to be seen who Gujarat play at number three.

Gujarat Titans: 1. Shubman Gill, 2. Matthew Wade (wk), 3. Wriddhiman Saha/Vijay Shankar, 4. Abhinav Manohar, 5. David Miller, 6. Hardik Pandya (c), 7. Rahul Tewatia, 8. Rashid Khan, 9. R Sai Kishore, 10. Lockie Ferguson, 11. Mohammed Shami

Lucknow don’t have Marcus Stoinis, Jason Holder and Kyle Mayers available yet due to national commitments.

Lucknow Super Giants: 1. KL Rahul (c), 2. Quinton de Kock (wk), 3. Manish Pandey, 4. Deepak Hooda, 5. Manan Vohra, 6. Krunal Pandya, 7. Ankit Rajpoot, 8. Krishnappa Gowtham, 9. Ravi Bishnoi, 10. Dushmantha Chameera, 11. Avesh Khan

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Gujarat Titans:

  • Is this the season where Shubman Gill fulfills his potential? He has shown glimpses of his brilliance in the IPL, without prolonged periods of consistency. He averages 32.97 in 37 innings as opener in the IPL, with a strike rate of 122.38.
  • Gill has an excellent record against pace bowling between 140 and 150km/h in the IPL. He has scored 204 runs off 144 balls at an average of 68.00. Dushmantha Chameera and Avesh Khan are likely to play for LSG, so keep an eye on this battle.
  • Gujarat will be hoping for Matthew Wade to show some of the form he showed in last year’s T20 World Cup. He much prefers to bat first in T20s (77 inns, 2,320 runs, avg. 36.83, SR 148.81) compared to second (73 inns, 1,082 runs, avg. 17.17, SR 116.22).
  • What a huge occasion it is for Hardik Pandya. He has plenty of experience playing at the Wankhede, with 777 runs in 37 innings at an average of 33.78 and strike rate of 135.13.
  • Also, Hardik strikes at 200 in overs 17-20 in the IPL. Watch out if he is set at this stage.
  • Expect Gujarat to use the great Rashid Khan in the powerplay and between overs 12 and 20. He has a wonderful record against KL Rahul in the IPL (30 balls, 18 runs, three wickets). Also, he concedes just 6.8 runs per over in phase 12-16 and just 8.0 per over in the death overs.
  • Lockie Ferguson has taken 19 wickets in his last 13 IPL matches at an economy rate of just 7.46. He is a genuine wicket-taker and will be key against LSG’s middle order that has a lot to prove.
  • Mohammed Shami has a solid record at the Wankhede, with 10 wickets in six T20s at an average of 18.90 and strike rate of 14.40.

Lucknow Super Giants:

  • KL Rahul, of course. The Lucknow skipper has had a prolific last three seasons of the IPL, scoring 1,889 runs at an average of 57.24 and strike rate of 134.26 since the beginning of IPL 2019. Also, Rahul has an outstanding record at the Wankhede, with 494 runs in nine matches at an average of 61.75 and strike rate of 146.15.
  • Rahul averages 64 and strikes at 130 in the powerplay in the IPL. The average and strike rate drop to 40 and 121 between overs 7-11, before the strike rate explodes to 185 between overs 17-20. Gujarat need his wicket by the middle part of the innings at the latest.
  • Rahul’s partnership with Quinton de Kock is one of the most exciting aspects of Lucknow this season. de Kock strikes at 144 in the powerplay in the IPL, and has an excellent record at the Wankhe: 10 inns, 391 runs, avg. 43.44, SR 143.75.
  • It’s a big season for Manish Pandey. He too has some solid numbers at the Wankhede, with 215 runs in eight knocks at an average of 35.83 and strike rate of 130.30.
  • Krunal Pandya’s experience at the Wankhede will be key for Lucknow. The left-arm spinner has taken 26 wickets in 28 innings on this ground at an economy rate of just 6.67. He has also struck 375 runs at a strike rate of 136.36.
  • Eyes will be fixed on Ravi Bishnoi. The leg-spinner was terrific in IPL 2021, taking 12 wickets in nine matches at an economy rate of just 6.38. Also, he won player of the match vs West Indies last month for his 2/17.
  • Avesh Khan took the second-most wickets in IPL 2021 (24, avg. 18.75, econ. 7.37).

Stats and Facts

  • Abhinav Manohar could be one to watch. He struck 70*, 19, 27 and 46 at an overall strike rate of 150 in the Syed Ali Mushtaq Trophy in November last year.
  • Quinton de Kock strikes at 124 between overs 7-11 and Manish Pandey strikes at just 112 in the same period. If Gujarat dismiss KL Rahul early, they can build pressure from there.
  • Avesh Khan averages 16.2 runs per wicket in the powerplay in the IPL, at an economy rate of just 6.2. Also, expect Lucknow to use Avesh between overs 12-16, as he averages just 14.6 in this period at an economy rate of 6.9.
  • Hardik Pandya is two away from 100 sixes in the IPL.

Wankhede Stadium Mumbai Pitch Report and Weather

Swing and seam was on offer in the IPL 2022 opener between Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders. Umesh Yadav exploited the conditions perfectly, winning player of the match for his brilliant 2/20. The pitch also offered turn, but expect the powerplay bowlers to play a key role once again.

Since 2020, the chasing team has won 14 of the 20 T20s at the Wankhede. Expect the captain who wins the toss to choose to chase as the team batting second has won all three games so far in this IPL.

Another clear and warm evening is forecast in Mumbai.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article as well as your own instincts to create your teams.

Option 1:

GT vs LKN Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 4 | GT vs LSG Dream11 Prediction Today | Gujarat Titans vs Lucknow Super Giants Key Players | Wankhede Pitch Report
IPL 2022 Match 4: GT vs LSG Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

GT vs LKN Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 4 | GT vs LSG Dream11 Prediction Today | Gujarat Titans vs Lucknow Super Giants Key Players | Wankhede Pitch Report
IPL 2022 Match 4: GT vs LSG Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: KL Rahul, Quinton de Kock
  • Batsmen: Manish Pandey, Shubman Gill
  • All-rounders: Hardik Pandya
  • Bowlers: Mohammed Shami, Rashid Khan, Avesh Khan

Match Prediction

What an intriguing battle this promises to be between the two new teams. Lucknow look strong this season, while Gujarat are sprinkled with talent too. Lucknow should win, but the team batting first needs 170+ to feel competitive.

WI vs ENG: The stats that will make England fans laugh or cry

Charbel Coorey
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WI vs ENG: The stats that will make England fans laugh or cry

Cricket News: WI vs ENG: The stats that will make England fans laugh or cry | England flop again in Test cricket, with a 1-0 series defeat in West Indies – the stats

As soon as Joshua Da Silva and Alzarri Joseph dropped anchor in the West Indies’ first innings, any England fan could have been forgiven for thinking the worst. By the time Craig Overton broke the 49-run stand for the eighth wicket, England were only in front by 27, certainly not enough to feel safe after with England’s regular habit of batting collapses in Test cricket.

And they obliged. Joe Root’s team followed up their first innings collapse of 90/8 with 120 in the second to surrender the series. Batting coach Marcus Trescothick pleaded for calm and not to judge England’s batting progress by “one bad day”, but such a comment is laughable given their batting woes of the past few years.

Sure, they scored big in Antigua and Barbados, but the pitches were so flat that Kraigg Brathwaite could have still been batting today. Grenada was the first instance of helpful bowling conditions in the series, and England’s array of loose techniques, lack of temperament and reliance on Root were duly exposed.

Not by Kemar Roach. Nor Alzarri Joseph, Jason Holder or Jayden Seales. But by the medium pace of Kyle Mayers. His 5/9 on the third evening was characterised by skilful seam bowling on a helpful track, but it was another example of England succumbing to bowling they should be better against. Remember, a little over three years ago, Roston Chase’s steady-but-unspectacular off-breaks yielded 8/60 in a 381-run victory for the Windies.

The numbers make for horrible reading from an England perspective. Here are some of the stats highlights from another failed Test series for a team well and truly on the slide.

WI vs ENG: The stats underpinning horrible England in Test cricket:

No Test series win for England in West Indies since 2004

West Indies have largely struggled for consistency in Test cricket, except when England come to town. The Windies have lost just two Tests out of 13 against England at home since 2004, with the tourists failing to win any of the four Test assignments in this period.

Worse, England have won just one series in the Caribbean since 1968. They have toured West Indies 11 times since, and while the home side’s domination in the 1980s and 1990s is understandable, England’s struggles since 2004 is of great concern.

Embed from Getty Images

One win in last 17 Tests overall

England’s brilliant win over India in Chennai last year brought a renewed sense of hope that this team can climb up the rankings. That victory followed a 2-0 series win in Sri Lanka, where Joe Root and the spinners led the way.

However, it was the calm before a huge storm. Joe Root’s team have won just one of their next 17 Tests, including none in their past nine, namely the final three Tests in India, 1-0 and 2-1 defeats to New Zealand and India at home, before getting blanked 4-0 in the Ashes and 1-0 in West Indies.

Alex Lees scores nearly half of England’s top seven runs

England’s top seven contributed 127 runs in the entire Test, averaging just 9.07 runs per wicket. Worse, Alex Lees contributed to nearly 50% of those runs (62), with only Jonny Bairstow crossing double figures in either innings (22 in the second innings).

It was a new ball pitch, but it was an extremely poor effort by England’s frontline batsmen. They were shown up by Jack Leach (41) and Saqib Mahmood (49) who put 90 for the last wicket in the first innings.

England’s 3rd lowest 3rd innings score in West Indies

England’s abysmal 120 in the second innings is their third-lowest score in the third innings in the Caribbean. This effort sits behind their 51 all-out in Kingston in 2009 and 103 in Kingston in 1935.

Kyle Mayers 5/18 among the cheapest 5-fers for West Indies against England

Kyle Mayers’ 5/18 is the third-cheapest five-wicket haul for any West Indian bowler against England. It is some stat when you consider the number of incredible pace bowlers to come out of the Caribbean.

Mayers sits behind Jerome Taylor (5/11, Kingston 2009), Michael Holding (5/17, Old Trafford 1976) and Kemar Roach (5/17, Barbados 2019).

In the final analysis, it is a wonderful series win for West Indies. Such are few and far between for them, which makes England’s performance all the more disappointing.

Joe Root’s position as captain must be under greater threat now, but the state of their batting is a much bigger issue. England’s supporters in the West Indies are certainly forgiven for travelling to the West Indies for the vibes rather than the cricket. It is truly a shambles.

Twitter reactions: Umesh Yadav leads KKR to easy win vs CSK

Charbel Coorey
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Twitter reactions: Umesh Yadav leads KKR to easy win vs CSK

Cricket News: Twitter reactions: Umesh Yadav leads KKR to easy win vs CSK | KKR beat CSK by 6 wickets in the opening match in IPL 2022

Kolkata Knight Riders enjoyed the perfect start to IPL 2022, courtesy of another excellent performance by powerplay specialist Umesh Yadav. Umesh, whose powerplay record is on par with Deepak Chahar’s, wowed viewers and tormented CSK’s batsmen with a terrific display of swing and seam bowling to finish with 2/20.

In the end, CSK finished at just 138/5, with only MS Dhoni, who wound back the clock with his 38-ball 50, finding any sort of rhythm for the defending champions. Umesh Yadav won his ninth player of the match award in IPL – the most among seamers – with spinners Varun Chakravarthy (1/23) and Sunil Narine (0/15) also terrific in limiting CSK on a pitch that had some turn.

In response, new recruit Ajinkya Rahane (44 off 34 balls) led the way, with new skipper Shreyas Iyer finishing unbeaten on 20*. The six-wicket win represents a good start to the season for KKR, who are aiming to go one better than their defeat in the IPL 2021 Final.

In the post-match presentation, Umesh Yadav spoke about how the focus is on him to bowl well in the powerplay. “Wickets in the powerplay is important. Team’s role is what I carried out today. Usually I’ve been focusing on my rhythm,” said Umesh.

“I’m thankful to my trainers for keeping me in shape.”

Twitter reactions: Umesh Yadav stars for KKR in victory over CSK

The IPL 2022 opener didn’t deliver the most thrilling contest, but Umesh’s noteworthy performance captured the attention of fans and pundits on Twitter. Here are some of the Twitter reactions to KKR’s six-wicket win over CSK.

PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 3

Charbel Coorey
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PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 3 | PBKS vs BLR Dream11 Prediction Today | Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Key Players | DY Patil Pitch Report

Two teams chasing a maiden title will do battle in one of the more intriguing matches early on in IPL 2022. Both Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore had busy auctions, with the former in particular entering the 2022 season with a new-look team.

We won’t see it in this match – the second of the day – as Jonny Bairstow is on national duty, but the Kings’ top order is a key strength of theirs this season. Also, when Kagiso Rabada starts his campaign after quarantine, their bowling attack will have a more potent feel to it. However, even without Bairstow and Rabada, there is plenty to look forward to for the Kings, with a number of domestic and overseas players looking to make a mark right away.

They will need to be on their game against an RCB team that looks to have one of the best bowling attacks on paper. Unlike seasons gone by, RCB have now focused on a strong bowling core, with Mohammed Siraj and Harshal Patel ones to watch.

And, there is the small measure of Faf du Plessis’ first game as an RCB player and captain. He is tasked with bringing glory to the franchise that has made some positive steps in the past two seasons, with his role as batsman and skipper to be under the spotlight. Also under the spotlight is Virat Kohli who is searching for his best form, as well as RCB’s middle order that could be a weakness this season with the great AB de Villiers now retired.

Possible Playing 11

Jonny Bairstow (England duty) and Kagiso Rabada (quarantine) will be unavailable for this match. So, two of Benny Howell, Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Nathan Ellis could get a game here.

Punjab Kings: 1. Shikhar Dhawan, 2. Mayank Agarwal (c), 3. Liam Livingstone, 4. Prabhsimran Singh (wk), 5. Shahrukh Khan, 6. Benny Howell/Bhanuka Rajapaksa/Rishi Dhawan, 7. Odean Smith, 8. Harpreet Brar/Ishan Porel/Sandeep Sharma, 9. Arshdeep Singh, 10. Rahul Chahar, 11. Nathan Ellis

Faf du Plessis will lead RCB in their quest of a maiden title. They have the option of opening the batting with Virat Kohli, with Sherfane Rutherford, Wanindu Hasaranga and David Willey all potential overseas options alongside du Plessis. Also, Finn Allen is available.

Australians Glenn Maxwell, Josh Hazlewood and Jason Behrendorff are unavailable as they are on national duty.

Royal Challengers Bangalore: 1. Faf du Plessis (c), 2. Anuj Rawat, 3. Virat Kohli, 4. Mahipal Lomror, 5. Dinesh Karthik (wk), 6. Sherfane Rutherford, 7. Wanindu Hasaranga, 8. David Willey, 9. Harshal Patel, 10. Shahbaz Ahmed, 11. Mohammed Siraj

Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Punjab Kings:

  • Shikhar Dhawan was a great pick by the Kings in the auction. Dhawan has been one of the most consistent players in recent seasons – he scored the fourth-most runs in IPL 2019 (521), the second-most in 2020 (618) and fourth-most again in 2021 (587) at an overall average of 39.23 and strike rate of 134.63 in this period.
  • Dhawan has solid numbers against RCB, with 656 runs in 25 innings at an average of 32.80 and strike rate of 121.48.
  • Mayank Agarwal will now lead PBKS, and it is a huge season for him. He has struck 865 runs in the past two seasons at an overall average of 39.32 and strike rate of 147.86. Agarwal has struck 195 runs in seven innings against RCB at an average of of 27.86 and strike rate of 145.52. Can he build on those numbers here?
  • Agarwal’s prowess against good-length deliveries is a feature of his game. He has scored 321 runs off 216 deliveries against such deliveries from pacers in the IPL, as well as 232 off 167 off good-length deliveries to the spinners.
  • Can Liam Livingstone make an immediate impact after a disappointing IPL 2021? He was one of the top players in all short-form cricket last year, with 1,301 runs at an average of 37.17 and strike rate of 155.07.
  • Odean Smith is one to watch with bat and ball. He struck quickfire 36 and 24 in the recent ODI series vs India, and took 22 wickets in 14 T20s in 2021.
  • Arshdeep Singh will be one of Punjab’s key bowlers this season, particularly at the death. The left-armer has not enjoyed bowling against RCB so far, with just the one wicket in two matches at an economy rate of 12.40. However, watch out for his wide line outside off, as he concedes just 7.20 per over and averages 20 per wicket with this type of delivery in the IPL.
  • Harpreet Brar was player of the match against RCB in India last season: 25* (17) and 3/19.

Royal Challengers Bangalore:

  • Faf du Plessis had a dream season in 2021 (633 runs, avg. 45.21, SR 138.20), and RCB fans will be hoping for more of the same. He has an outstanding record against Punjab (15 inns, 660 runs, avg. 60.00, SR 144.74).
  • Expect PBKS to employ spin early as du Plessis strikes at just 114 vs wristspin, 116 vs slow left arm and 106 vs off spin in the IPL.
  • Virat Kohli also has similar strike rates against spin, with his batting in the middle overs under the spotlight (SR of 103 between overs 7-11 in the IPL). Virat has the second-highest runs ever in RCB-PBKS matches (741) at an average of 29.64 and strike rate of 126.88. It will be interesting to see how Virat fares without the pressure of captaincy.
  • Mahipal Lomror was an important purchase for RCB given his ability to attack spin in the middle overs. He averages 70 and strikes at 136 between overs 7-11 and will want to improve on his 25/128 in overs 12-16.
  • Dinesh Karthik has a solid career record vs PBKS: 26 inns, 580 runs, avg. 32.22, SR 142.16.
  • What a season Harshal Patel had in 2021. The seamer took the most wickets by an Indian in IPL history (32) and will be looking for more of the same this season.
  • Mohammed Siraj’s battle against PBKS’s top order could be key to the result. He concedes just 6.8 per over in the powerplay in IPL, but has taken just two scalps in five matches vs PBKS at an average of 86.00 and economy rate of 10.12.

Other Stats and Facts

  • Head-to-head: Matches 28, PBKS 15, RCB 13.
  • RCB need to dismiss Mayank Agarwal early. The right-hander strikes at 169 between overs 7-11 in the IPL at an average of 36 in this period.
  • Shahrukh Khan averages 27 and strikes at 184 between overs 17-20 in the IPL.
  • Harpreet Brar concedes just 6.05 runs per over off good-length deliveries in the IPL (114 balls, 115 runs, four wickets).
  • Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli strike at 219 and 218 respectively between overs 17-20. If one of them bats deep, RCB will be in a good state.

Dr DY Patil Sports Academy Mumbai Pitch Report and Weather

Teams batting second have won 10 of 17 matches on this ground. It is typically a pitch that has something in it for the pacers early, before slowing up throughout the match. The powerplay bowlers will certainly be key.

A warm and sunny day is forecast in Mumbai. A clear evening will likely mean dew. Expect the captain who wins the toss to choose to chase.

Dream11 Prediction

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article as well as your own instincts to create your teams.

Option 1:

PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 3 | PBKS vs BLR Dream11 Prediction Today | Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Key Players | DY Patil Pitch Report
IPL 2022 Match 3: PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Prediction

Option 2:

PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Prediction & Fan2Play Possible 11 Pitch Report: IPL 2022 Match 3 | PBKS vs BLR Dream11 Prediction Today | Punjab Kings vs Royal Challengers Bangalore Key Players | DY Patil Pitch Report
IPL 2022 Match 3: PBKS vs RCB Dream11 Prediction

Fan2Play Prediction

Base team:

  • Wicket-keepers: Dinesh Karthik
  • Batsmen: Faf du Plessis, Shikhar Dhawan, Mayank Agarwal
  • All-rounders: Liam Livingstone, Wanindu Hasaranga
  • Bowlers: Harshal Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh

Match Prediction

Both teams are missing some key players. Chasing will likely be the way to go in the early matches, so the team who bats first needs to muster 170+ at least. RCB start as favourites, though, courtesy of their attack.

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